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Hi I'm Trent Toone

I grew up in northern Utah. I'm a husband, a father, a journalist and a family historian. I'm a Mormon.

About Me

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I'm an avid sports fan. I enjoy spending time with my wife and four children, including one son with diabetes and one daughter with special needs. One of the highlights of my year is embarking on a camping/fishing trip with my father, brothers and our young sons.
One of the defining experiences in my life came when I served a 2-year mission in Santiago, Chile. Not only did I learn Spanish, but I learned many important lessons that have remained with me and blessed my life.
I studied journalism, public relations and Spanish in college. I currently make my living as a writer. In addition to writing newspaper articles, I recently published my first book, a biography about an NFL football player. I delight in helping people write their personal or family history. I also have fun producing short documentaries on the lives of my family members.

Why I am a Mormon

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I'm proud to say my ancestors were faithful converts and stalwart pioneers. I was raised by great parents who loved the Lord and taught me righteous principles by example. The foundation of my testimony was built one brick of truth at a time. I was blessed with great gospel teachers, boy scout masters, and other influential leaders who helped me develop a love for the scriptures and who taught me how to magnify my priesthood duties. Serving a mission in a South American country was one of the greatest experiences of my life.
This doesn't mean I haven't had moments of shaken faith or doubt. But through trials and challenges I have come to know that the Lord knows me personally and cares deeply about me and my happiness. I have seen evidence of this at times in my life. I continue to love the gospel and serve in the church because I know it is true. I see my testimony as my spiritual GPS. When I follow church leaders and live up to the standards of the church (something everyone is capable of), I feel a greater sense of spiritual guidance and protection through the intense heat and the storms of life. The Lord's love gives me greater confidence in myself and helps me to be a better father, husband and friend. For me, that spiritual guidance and protection gives me great comfort.

How I live my faith

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My faith is my lifestyle. I will be the first to admit that I am not perfect! In fact, I really struggle most days. I believe living a faithful life requires a daily, focused commitment. Society is gradually learning that we Mormons refrain from swearing, that we don't drink alcohol or smoke, that we are faithful to our spouses and take care of our families, that we are service-oriented, industrious and strive for a life of integrity. And society is always watching to see if we will keep this commitment. My parents taught me these principles and values as a kid and they are still part of me today. My goal is to live my faith a little better every day in all that I do and hopefully share with others what I believe.
Serving in the church and community have helped me to live my faith. I currently have responsibilities with serving the men and families in our congregation. The most meaningful opportunities to serve have come when I have felt impressed to help someone in need. Acting on those feelings have led to some of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and they reaffirm that my spiritual GPS is working and keeping me on the right path.